New research has found that many new vans and cars have increasingly large blind spots, known as the A-spot, caused by the A-pillars on either side of the windscreen.

Roadsafe is now calling on van fleet managers to ensure their drivers are aware of the potential danger.

According to findings from the auto research centre Mira, which was commissioned by Autoglass, the Ford Transit had an A-spot measuring 6.4m.

However, it was a coupe cabriolet car – the Peugeot 308CC – which came off the worst with an A-spot of 6.42m.

The tests also found that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Vito vans had A-spots of 6.3m and 6.2m respectively.

However, Ford said its Transit has been designed with safety in mind and includes features to help drivers manage the A-spot, including a higher seating position and larger blind-spot mirrors.

“The Transit is well respected for its high safety standards,” said a spokesman. “It is built to comply with EU regulations and has pioneered safety in vans – it was the first to have airbags, the first to have a steel bulkhead and the first to have ESP.”

Mercedes-Benz was equally defensive about the safety of its light commercial vehicles. “Our vehicles are among the safest on the road and comply with safety standards across the world,” said a spokesman. “Our passive and active safety systems have drastically reduced crashes and injuries for drivers, passengers and other road users.”

Further analysis and insight on the A-spot issue is available in Fleet News, October 8.